Taking a dog to Brittany is perfectly practical, but it adds a second layer to the route decision. The best crossing for a couple travelling alone may not be the best crossing once you need a pet-friendly cabin, kennel or suitable vehicle arrangement.
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Start with the accommodation your dog needs
Depending on the ship and route, pet arrangements can include a pet-friendly cabin, kennel or remaining in your vehicle. Do not assume every option exists on every sailing.
If you want a pet-friendly cabin, treat its availability as part of the sailing choice. A convenient departure is not much use if the pet accommodation you need has sold out.
PAPERWORK
What does your dog need to travel?
For travel from Great Britain, the operator advises that dogs need the correct pet travel documentation, microchip and rabies vaccination. If you do not have an EU-issued pet passport, this will normally mean obtaining an Animal Health Certificate from your vet for the trip.
For the return to Great Britain, dogs generally need tapeworm treatment administered abroad within the required window before arrival. Rules can change, so check current government and operator guidance before every trip.
ON BOARD
Where can your dog go on the ferry?
Pets must remain within the accommodation option booked for them. Dogs in kennels use the kennel and exercise areas; dogs in pet-friendly cabins use the cabin and designated exercise area; pets booked to remain in a vehicle stay in the vehicle during the crossing except where controlled welfare visits are permitted.
Brittany Ferries requires dogs to be on a lead and muzzled when moving through relevant ship areas outside their accommodation. Assistance dogs have different arrangements.
ROUTE CHOICE
Which ferry route is best with a dog?
There is no single best pet route. A shorter crossing may reduce time at sea, while an overnight crossing with a suitable pet-friendly cabin may be much easier for a long holiday journey. The amount of driving before and after the ferry matters too.
Portsmouth to Saint-Malo gets you directly into eastern Brittany. Plymouth to Roscoff is particularly attractive for South West travellers and western Brittany. Compare the complete journey and then verify pet space on the sailing you want.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Taking a dog to Brittany FAQs
Can I take my dog as a foot passenger?
Brittany Ferries says ordinary pets cannot travel as foot passengers, with a bicycle or with a motorcycle. Assistance-dog arrangements are different and should be confirmed with the operator.
How many pets can I book?
Brittany Ferries currently allows a maximum of five pets per vehicle when booking online; contact the operator if you need to travel with more.
How early should I check in with a dog?
Brittany.co.uk uses a 90-minute planning allowance for pet journeys. Always follow the exact check-in requirement on your booking confirmation.
Does my dog have to wear a muzzle?
Brittany Ferries requires dogs to be muzzled and on a lead when outside the vehicle or booked pet accommodation in relevant ship areas. Assistance dogs are treated differently.